UD Trucks: Driving Positive Change in South Africa

For more than six decades, UD Trucks Southern Africa (UDTSA) has established itself as a fixture within the region, known both for its Japanese-engineered sustainable transport solutions and its active role in community development. The company underscores its 'Better Life' purpose through a range of initiatives focused on skills building, job creation, women's advancement, and safety.

Managing Director Filip Van den Heede emphasised the company's local roots: "South Africa is home for our brand. Our commitment extends well beyond manufacturing trucks; we are dedicated to making a positive contribution to the societies we serve. Our flagship CSR projects reflect this, aiming to create lasting impact in the transport industry and people's lives for a better future."

Shared Purpose Drives Industry Collaboration

A key example is UDTSA's ongoing partnership with SaferStops, united by a vision to improve safety, wellness, and working conditions for truck drivers nationwide. In 2025, UDTSA was a major sponsor of the SaferStops Truck Driver Safety and Wellness Symposium. The event drew 384 delegates, including 191 truck drivers, and 28 sponsors. It prioritised driver wellbeing through health check-ups, vision tests, and workshops covering physical, financial, and emotional wellness on the road.

SaferStops also launched the "Leaders in Motion" series at Stellenbosch University, collaborating with the Department of Logistics. This initiative connected young people with the logistics and transport industry. Van den Heede participated, sharing insights on operational and strategic challenges as a Japanese manufacturer in South Africa and offering students hands-on product experience.

Honouring Mandela Through Community Action

Reinforcing its commitment during Mandela Month, UDTSA supported local communities. The team visited Sinqobile Primary School in Soshanguve, donating school shoes, socks, and fresh fruit to enhance student wellbeing and confidence. UDTSA also assisted SOS Children’s Village Mamelodi, providing vulnerable children with essential items like comforters, fitted sheets, oil heaters for winter warmth, and pine desks and chairs, reflecting the spirit of Ubuntu.

Prioritising Road Safety Nationwide

UDTSA partnered with Fleetwatch as a leading sponsor at the 54th Brake & Tyre Watch event in Potchefstroom. This industry-led initiative educates traffic officials on roadside safety inspections. The 2025 event saw a 97% attendance rate among traffic officials, the highest in three years. Eighty-two officials received training, leading to the inspection of four vehicles (one discontinued, three with tyre faults). UDTSA showcased the advanced safety features of its trucks, highlighting the value of collaboration for safer roads.

Investing in Skills for the Future

Skills development and job creation are central to UDTSA's strategy. The company actively participates in the Youth Employment Service (YES) programme, providing hands-on experience, mentorship, and training to over 40 young South Africans in sales and manufacturing this year. This supports national efforts to address youth unemployment.

Further, as an extension of its Ultimate Women Program with the Commercial Transport Academy (CTA), UDTSA is training ten young women from the YES cohort to become professional truck drivers, empowering them with skills and confidence.

Sustaining the Commitment

Janet Frost, HR Director at UD Trucks Southern Africa, outlined the path forward: "As a significant regional brand, we integrate our Better Life purpose and community needs into our core business. We remain committed to investing in and empowering individuals who will shape the future of our industry and South Africa." Through its CSR initiatives and partnerships, UDTSA pledges to continue sharing its success with the communities supporting it.

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